A freshly groomed Chris Kaman was introduced by the Los Angeles Lakers on a sunny afternoon in El Segundo Tuesday. As is customary, Lakers’ General Manager Mitch Kupchak introduced the new signing.
Kaman was initially signed on July 8, but the press conference was delayed until the “Caveman” returned from vacation. On Tuesday, Kaman cut off his beard, re-signed his contract, took a physical, and spoke to the Los Angeles media fresh off the beaches of Hawaii.
“This is the whitest tan you’ll ever see,” Kaman joked about his pale complexion.
Along with providing the Lakers depth at center, the 7-footer also brings in a light personality to the locker room. With the departures of Dwight Howard and Metta World Peace over the summer, the Lakers need new personalities that will ccasionally draw some laughs during the season. Kaman should be one of those guys.
Likely, the former NBA All-Star will play as a backup to Pau Gasol. Coach Mike D’Antoni was never a fan of playing the twin tower lineup that slowed the pace of play, so Howard’s departure should result in only one true center on the floor. Considering the options are Robert Sacre, Gasol, and Kaman, Gasol should start with Kaman being the first center off the bench.
Kaman was widely recognized for being a hard worker and good teammate during his eight seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers. Entering his 11th season in the league, 31-year-old Kaman is not exactly a spring chicken, but he still appeared motivated to make his mark.
“This is just another opportunity for me to show people what I can do,” Kaman said. “I look forward to it, and I look forward to making the most out of it and having the best opportunity here.”
Welcome back to Los Angeles, Chris Kaman.
